AMERICA’S BEST IDEA Article
Just in time for Independence Day, The Good Government Show podcast welcomed a very special guest: David Vela, the former director of the National Park Service. In a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation with host Dave Martin, Vela reflected on his 38-year career in public service, his passion for preserving America’s natural and historic treasures, and why national parks remain, in his words, “America’s best idea.”
America’s Best Idea Show Notes
America’s national parks have been called “the best idea we ever had.” David Vela is the former director of the National Park Service. He spent 38 years in public service and directly managed some of the jewels in the National Park system. Budget cuts concern him, but he says Americans can help. Just listen. Hola […]
New Energy in Arkansas Show Notes
Molly Rawn is the new mayor of Fayetteville, AR. She said she brings new energy to the role. She has a background in bringing tourists to her city and fundraising, good stepping stones to become mayor. GoodGovernmentShow.com Thanks to our sponsors: Register for the AWS Imagine Education, State, and Local Government in Chicago, IL July […]
Grand Rapids Is Booming—And Walter Bujak Says That’s What Good Government Looks Like Article
Kent County Commissioner Walter Bujak wants the rest of the country to know a little secret: Grand Rapids is thriving—and it didn’t happen by accident. In a new episode of The Good Government Show with Dave Martin, Bujak highlights a wave of bold, community-focused investments that are reshaping the region—from riverfront trails to a brand-new […]
Building Up Grand Rapids Michigan Show Notes
Grand Rapids is under construction. Kent County Commissioner Walter Bujak stopped by to talk about the new projects underway in this Michigan city. A zoo, a soccer stadium and a new outdoor theater are all underway. GoodGovernmentShow.com Thanks to our sponsors: Register for the AWS Imagine Education, State, and Local Government in Chicago, IL July […]
Raleigh NC Mayor Janet Cowell Talks Growth, Grit, and Good Government Article
“Being mayor is gritty. It’s tangible. You see the trash trucks roll out at 5:30 a.m. and know you’re responsible for that,” she said. “But it’s also inspiring. Cities are where government hits the ground—street trees, public pools, safe roads. That’s real impact.”
New Mayor in the City of Oaks Show Notes
Janet Cowell stopped in for a conversation during her first 100 days as Mayor of Raleigh, NC. With 25 years in public service, she said she was ready. Listen to her plan to run her city. Mayor Cowell’s State of the City Address GoodGovernmentShow.com Thanks to our sponsors: Register for the AWS Imagine Education, State, […]
Mayor David Holt Champions Growth, Unity—and the NBA Finals—on The Good Government Show Article
As the Oklahoma City Thunder charge into the NBA Finals, Mayor David Holt is celebrating more than just basketball wins. In a recent episode of The Good Government Show with Dave Martin, Holt showcased the dynamic evolution of Oklahoma City—from a mid-sized prairie town to a national model of smart growth, civic unity, and good […]
The 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Oklahoma City? Meet OKC Mayor David Holt Show Notes
Mayor David Holt talks about how his city became and Olympic city. He also talks about how mayors are creating good government across the nation and why it’s the best job in politics Mayor Holt’s Guest Commentary: A Republican Mayor’s Unexpected Presidential Vote GoodGovernmentShow.com Thanks to our sponsors: Register for the AWS Imagine Education, State, […]
Justin Douglas traded a career in Public Service for a new job in Public Service Show Notes
Justin Douglas is a new county commissioner in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. He was a pastor, actually an ex-pastor, as he will explain. Then an organization called Run for Something convinced him to run for office, he did and won. Listen to his story. GoodGovernmentShow.com Thanks to our sponsors: Register for the AWS Summit Washington, DC […]